Description
Smashed Chilli Garlic Broccoli is a vibrant and flavorful Asian-inspired side dish featuring broccoli florets that are blanched, smashed, and roasted to crispy perfection. Enhanced with a zesty garlic and chilli-infused olive oil mixture, this vegan and gluten-free recipe is both healthy and satisfying, perfect as a light meal or a vibrant accompaniment.
Ingredients
Scale
Broccoli
- 1 large head of broccoli (cut into florets)
Seasoning and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon red chilli flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish (Optional)
- Sesame seeds or chopped scallions
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Broccoli: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Blanch Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the boiling water and blanch for 2–3 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender. Drain and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Pat the broccoli dry thoroughly using a clean towel.
- Smash Broccoli: Arrange the broccoli florets evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Use the bottom of a glass or a flat spatula to gently press down and smash each floret, increasing the surface area for crispiness.
- Prepare Garlic Chilli Sauce: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, red chilli flakes, soy sauce, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful drizzle.
- Apply Sauce and Roast: Brush or spoon the garlic chilli mixture evenly over each smashed broccoli floret. Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping, until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with sesame seeds or chopped scallions if desired. Serve warm as a tasty side dish or over rice for a light meal.
Notes
- This recipe can also be made with cauliflower following the same steps.
- For extra crispiness, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the broccoli before roasting.
- Perfect as a side dish or served over rice for a wholesome, light meal.
